Armaan tests for Indy Lights

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Last Updated: Tue, Nov 01, 2011 12:50 hrs

Chennai, Nov 1 (IANS) Armaan Ebrahim completed a successful two-day test with Jensen Motor Sport, one of the top Indy Lights series teams, at the famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway in the United States last weekend.

Armaan, the 22-year old from Chennai, who had previously tested with Bryan Herta Autosport team in September, was second fastest as he opted to skip the inaugural Formula One Indian Grand Prix in Greater Noida while preferring to secure some track time in an Indy Lights car.

Armaan, who drove both days with old tyres, finished second overall when all cars were on old sets despite losing considerable amount of track time due to fuel pump and brake issues.

Originally, Armaan was to have tested with BHA Oct 29 and Jensen Motor Sport the following day. However, in the wake of the death of their driver Dan Wheldon during a race in Las Vegas Oct 16, BHA could not conduct the test as scheduled.

Armaan said: 'It was not easy to keep my mind focused as I was missing the inaugural Indian GP and an opportunity to meet the F1 teams.

'Also, the passing away of Dan is still very much on everyone's mind. But as a Racing driver, one has to deal with all situations and that is exactly what I managed to do by coming out on top at the end of the two days.

'The IMS Road circuit was a delight to drive on with the high speed banked corners. Unfortunately, my progress was hampered due to certain issues with the car on both days and I finally had a decent run in the last session where I was second fastest overall on old tyres.

'I was not able to use the new tyres in the last few minutes of the final session which could have helped my lap times even more.'

Armaan said he was in the process of finalising a contract for the 2012 Indy Lights season and a strong performance would provide him opportunities for an entry into Formula One or the IRL.

'We are all set now to finalize our contract for the 2012 Indy Lights season. The game plan is very clear and that is to do exceedingly well in the Indy Lights Series which will then put me in a position to secure a drive in 2013 either in F1 or in the Indy Racing League.

'It is pointless to attempt GP2 as there is no sponsorship available for a race seat with a top team. I have backing for an F1 or an Indy drive, but definitely not for GP2,' said Armaan.